tang’ak

music

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July 14, 2026

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The term "tang'ak" refers to a genre of Korean music that was influenced by Chinese court music, particularly during the Tang dynasty. This style, along with indigenous Korean musical traditions, has shaped the rich tapestry of Korean music over centuries.1

Tang'ak music was characterized by its use of Chinese-derived instruments and musical forms, often performed in courtly settings. While distinct from native Korean styles like hyang'ak (Korean music) and a'ak (Confucian ritual music), it played a significant role in the development of Korean musical heritage. The preservation of these traditions in Korea offers a unique window into musical practices that may have long disappeared in their country of origin.12

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Korean music
Court instrumental music
…divided into hyang’ak, Korean music; tang’ak, Tang and Song Chinese music; and a’ak, Confucian ritual music. The instruments used for these ensembles were of Chinese derivation and included sets of tuned stones (in Korean p’yŏn’gyŏng) and bells (p’yŏnjong), mouth organ (saeng), and instruments in all the other eight categories of…
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…divided into hyang’ak, Korean music; tang’ak, Tang and Song Chinese music; and a’ak, Confucian ritual music. The instruments used for these ensembles were of Chinese derivation and included sets of tuned stones (in Korean p’yŏn’gyŏng) and bells (p’yŏnjong), mouth organ (saeng), and instruments in all the other eight categories of…
Read More